This guide provides a recommended systematic sequence for using the referenced test methods for evaluating the durability of EC insulating glass units (IGUs) as described in section 1.2. , (See Appendix X1, Section X1.4.)

This guide provides a summary of the durability issues addressed by each of the series of standards that are necessary for assesing the durability of electrochromic coatings (ECCs) in insulating glass units (IGUs). When fully implemented in buildings in the U.S., ECCs in IGUs have the potential of significantly reducing our current energy consumption for all uses-not just buildings. IGUs with ECCs will, of necessity, have to be able to pass the applicable standards listed in Appendix X1, Section X1.4, as well as an ASTM standard on wind loading for IGUs. Passing these will not be sufficient because the operating temperatures of ECCs in IGUs can potentially be as high as 90°C at the center-of glass, whereas the highest temperature used in Test Method E2188 is 60°C . Listings of existing and proposed standards are given in Table 1 and in Appendix X1, Section X1.4.

1. Scope

1.1 This guide provides the recommended sequence for using the referenced ASTM test methods for assessing the durability of absorptive electrochromic coatings (ECCs) within sealed insulating glass units. Cross sections of typical electrochromic glazings have three to five-layers of coatings that include one to three active layers sandwiched between two transparent conducting electrodes (TCOs, see Section 3). Examples of the cross-sectional arrangements can be found in “Evaluation Criteria and Test Methods for Electrochromic Windows.” (For a list of acronyms used in this standard, see Appendix X1, Section X1.1).

1.2 This guide is applicable only for layered (one or more active coatings between the TCOs) absorptive ECCs on vision glass (superstrate and substrate) areas planned for use in IGUs for buildings, such as glass doors, windows, skylights, and exterior wall systems. The layers used for electrochromically changing the optical properties may be inorganic or organic materials between the superstrate and substrate.

1.3 The ECCs used in this guide will ultimately be exposed (Test Method E2141) to solar radiation and deployed to control the amount of radiation by absorption and reflection and thus, limit the solar heat gain and amount of solar radiation that is transmitted into the building.

1.4 This guide is not applicable to other types of coatings on vision glass with other chromogenic coatings, for example, photochromic and thermochromic coatings.

1.5 This guide is not applicable to IGUs that will be constructed from superstrate or substrate materials other than glass.

1.6 The test methods referenced in this guide are laboratory test methods conducted under specified conditions.

1.7 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.

1.8 There is no comparable International Standards Organization Standard.

1.9 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory requirements prior to use.